The monsoon season is ideal for exploring Maharashtra's forts because of the pleasant weather and surrounding verdant landscapes. The Lohgad walk is one fort trip you might want to do during this monsoon.
The Marathi word "Loh," which meaning iron, is where the fort got its name. It's close to Khandala and Lonavala. The Archaeology Survey of India keeps an eye on the fort, which is a protected monument.
Because its doorways and walls are still in perfect shape, this is one of the most intriguing forts to see. Dating back to the Satvahan Era, the fort's primary purpose was to guard the trade path that went through the Sahyadris.
We will cover all you need to learn about Lohagad Fort in this blog, including its background, the hiking trail, and the reasons it is a must-see location for all hikers.
History of Lohagad Fort
The history of Lohagad Fort is extensive and stretches back to the Maratha Empire. The fort was probably built in the sixteenth century by the Maratha king Shivaji Maharaj. During the Maratha era, the fort acted as both a tactical location to store weapons and ammunition and a watchtower to keep an eye on the enemies. The fort served as a jail and was well known for its uncrackable dungeons.
In the eighteenth century, the British East India Company took over the fort and converted it into a jail. The fort was classified as an archaeological site after India gained its independence, and in 1982 it was turned into a national park. The fort is open to visitors today who want to learn its fascinating history and enjoy the exhilaration of trekking.
Brief About Lohagad Fort Trek
It takes three to four hours to complete the short, simple one-day hike to Lohagad Fort. The hike is made even more picturesque by the fort's fog and misty covering during the monsoon. In addition, visitors can spend a single day exploring the adjacent Visapur Fort, which is more important than Lohagad Fort.
Along with the several caverns atop the fort and the reversible waterfall, the trip offers breathtaking views of the Sahyadri range. The walk is a great option for an exciting vacation or a short weekend trip.
Best Time To Visit Lohagad Fort Trek
Although Lohagad Fort Trek is available all year round, September through March is the ideal time to visit. However, the monsoon is the best time to go if you want a wonderful experience. There are numerous waterfalls and reversible waterfalls to enjoy, and the fort appears breathtaking when shrouded in mist and fog. However, be ready for crowds, particularly on weekends. Because of the heat and muggy weather, the summer walk can be exhausting, but you can choose the season to your preference.
How to Reach Lohagad Fort:
By road
Connected to the Mumbai-Pune highway lies Lohagad. You can go to Lohagad Fort by car from Pune. The trip will take about one hour and thirty minutes.
By rail
The Lohagad Fort nearest station is 30 km away at Akola Railway Station.
By air
The closest airport to Lohagad is Pune International Airport, which is 66.5 kilometres away.
Itinerary
The 2 days Lohagad trek itinerary is as follow:
Day 1
Arriving at the Camp and Enjoying a Fun-Filled Day
16:00 PM to 18:00 PM
- After checking in, arrive at the campsite around 4:00 PM to get welcoming refreshments.
- You can now get ready before taking part in other activities.
18:00 PM to 20:00 PM
- Take part in a variety of activities at the campsite, like hiking and cooking.
- Enjoy some evening munchies and some barbecue after the activities.
20:00 PM to 22:00 PM
- Enjoy spending time with your family around the bonfire and enjoying the music.
- You will now be treated to a delicious dinner that will satisfy your hunger.
22:00 PM to 00:00 AM
- You can now gaze up into the starry sky for some time.
- You may now rest easy in your clean, well-maintained tents.
Day 2
Trekking in the morning and checking out
8:00 AM to 10:00 AM
- Wake up early and get ready since we're going to be travelling to the Lohagad Fort Trek.
- In the dining room, start your day with a delightful breakfast and a mood-reviving cup of tea.
10:00 AM to 11:00 AM
- Pack your luggage and snap some pictures at the campsite after breakfast.
- You can now start descending from the camp.
Must Things To Carry
- Cap, sunglasses, scarf
- ID proof
- Personal minimal health pack (including antibiotics for stomach infections, a few bandages, an antiseptic, and any personal drugs you may have)
- Face Wash
- Energy drink (ex. Glucon D)
- Please make an effort to wear a full-sleeve t-shirt and track trousers.
- Min. 3 litres water (must)
- Rainywear (optional)
- A carry-all bag to hold everything that needs to be carried.
- Camera (optional)
- Food that is ready to eat, such as chips, plum cake, and biscuits
- Gather all trash and bring it back; the city will dispose of it.
- Good hiking shoes—better yet, Action or sports shoes with good traction
- Hand Sanitizer (must)
- Extra pair of clotings(optional)
How To Get To The Fort
There are two possible routes to get to the fort's base. You may complete the path from the Malavli railway station in a single day, covering the Visapur fort, the Lohagad fort, and the Bhaja caves. You will need to travel around 6 km to go from Malavli station to Lohagad. You will arrive at the fort's base in two to three hours.
The Lonavala side is the second route. You will pass through the magnificent Dudhivare Khind on this route. Both routes are incredibly beautiful and lead to Lohagadwadi, the starting village for the Lohagad fort hike. There are sturdy stairs leading up to the fort's summit from here. Roughly 45 minutes will pass before reaching the summit.
On top are numerous historical buildings, temples, and the Darga.
Conclusion:
The Lohagad Fort is a place that hikers simply must see. The Lohagad Camping & Trekking is demanding and rewarding, as it affords breathtaking vistas of the surrounding hills.
To see this location and this old fort, go to Lohagad alone. Remember to snap lots of pictures and safe selfies. These are the ideal times to walk and camp at Lohgad Fort.
Happy Travelling!
